Transcript

00:00:00

>> The biggest ever photo event in London opens at Somerset House. Running over four days, Photo London includes works from 85 of the world's leading galleries and some of Britain's best known photographers.>> When I took my camera, I didn't take it out just for a jolly walk around life, I took it out to record the things in life that shouldn't be.

00:00:22

>> Some of the most poignant shots courtesy of celebrated photo journalist Don McCullen. From 1960s London via Vietnam and East Germany.>> I've earned my reputation in life out of other people's suffering. So the idea I've got a grip of those thoughts means I don't feel totally pleased about myself.

00:00:44

I feel pleased about the effort, but I'm very cautious about the rewards. Because these images are not always pleasant to look at. And many of the people in my pictures have died, so it's not easy to live with myself.>> The various showrooms display images from every genre and every period.

00:01:03

There are also some more lighthearted and interactive elements to the exhibition. For example, this pop up food truck that I'm currently sitting in. It promises to bring to life some of photographer Martin Paz images of food in edible form. Martin's been snapping dinner plates across the world for 25 years.

00:01:21

>> I think people still think photography is just something that's done as a craft, or as an accessory to other arts. While as if you look at the democracy of photography, you look at the incredible number of people who are posting images on Instagram. This is the most democratic art form in the world.

00:01:35

So it's just making sure the establishment catch up and understand he real enthusiasm there is for photography. And that's why Photo London is so important.>> The iconic Rankin also making an appearance offering visitors the chance to use his Rankomat and take their own portraits in his signature style.

00:01:52

Only in it's second year, Photo London hopes to firmly cement the city as a global cultural capital.